A young artist from Brotton has secured a place at the country's oldest art school.

Craig Wilson, 23, is going to be studying at London's Royal Academy of Arts.

He is currently on the final year of a fine art degree course at Teesside University and will work towards a post-graduate diploma at the prestigious art school.

Craig said: "Competition for places at the academy is fierce. It's a rare opportunity, especially for an artist from this region, as the academy is known for only accepting a few students each year."

He added: "I not only see this as an incredible achievement and opportunity for myself, but also a fine tribute to my tutors at Teesside University and Cleveland College of Art and Design."

Craig has already had work displayed across this country and in exhibitions in New York and Chicago, having forged friendships with established artists Stella Vine and Stuart Semple.

Craig hopes to secure representation from an art gallery during the three years he will spend in London. He is also hoping for sponsorship from businesses during his studies. He can be contacted on: para_noir9@hotmail.com